Iceland Travel Guide

Iceland, the second largest island in Europe, lies close to the
Arctic Circle northwest of Scotland and south of Greenland, and it
is primarily the unique and wonderful natural phenomena that draw
visitors to the country. The hardy Icelandic people, descendants of
ancient Norsemen and Celts, are intriguing too, having spawned what
is now renowned as the oldest-surviving parliament in the world
(called the
Althing), founded in 930 AD. Iceland also boasts a
much-revered literary heritage of the best medieval works, mostly
based on heroic sagas.

Most of the country's popular tourist features are in the south
of the island near the capital, Reykjavik, and can be explored on
the much celebrated 'Golden Circle' route. Top of the list for
scenic splendour are the Gullfoss double-tiered waterfall and the
spouting hot springs of Geysir.

Reykjavik means 'smoky bay', but in the case of Iceland's
pristine capital (which is Europe's most northerly capital city)
the smoke is not smog, but rather steam from the underground
springs that warm the city. Reykjavik has a well-deserved
reputation for being one of the cleanest, most invigorating cities
in Europe, and boasts one of the highest standards of living in the
world. The city may be small, but it is full of interesting
attractions, from galleries and museums to thermal bathing spots,
and the nightlife is second to none.

Iceland is steadily increasing in popularity as a travel
destination, and offers so much to see and do that repeat visits
may be necessary, particularly as the country seems so different in
summer and winter. The summer weather enables all sorts of outdoor
fun in the gloriously unique landscapes, but the icy winter months
bring with them the spectacle of the Northern Lights, truly one of
the most magical experiences the world has to offer.